About Scarborough Downs
Our Mission:
At Scarborough Downs, we are dedicated to the sport of harness racing. We strive to entertain the public, and provide a livelihood for the equine industry so we can provide for our employees, community, and State of Maine Agricultural interests.
About the track...
Scarborough Downs Harness Racetrack is proud to be celebrating its 62nd year of business in 2012! And we owe our success to all our valued customers and horse men and women who support the track each and every season.
Nestled in the tall pines on 500 acres in the heart of Southern Maine in the town of Scarborough, Scarborough Downs is the home of New England's fastest half-mile track. The track, designed by Charles Coon and Sons, has drawn rave reviews by horsemen and women throughout its fast-paced history.
The track was once a popular Thoroughbred track when it opened in the 50s until the 70s, then became a harness track.
The track's unique setting draws thousands every racing season from all parts of the United States, Canada and beyond!
In addition to our 2011 live harness racing schedule, Scarborough Downs offers simulcasting of both thoroughbred and harness races from premier tracks from across the US and Canada -- 363 days a year, noon to midnight.
Close to the beaches and only 7 miles from downtown Portland, Maine's largest city, Scarborough Downs is one of the top entertainment destinations in the state -- We were voted the area's top Recreation Destination four years in a row! We truly are the only place to watch The Kentucky Derby and all the Triple Crown races! We are also host to a series of exciting and educational events all year long, from Family Fun Day to The Maine Breeders Stakes races and championship finals. In 2013, we are once again holding the 2-year-old Stakes Finals in September and the 3-year-old Stakes Finals in October. Plus there's a whole lot of fun planned all season long, just check our Special Events section and "like" us on Facebook for the latest updates on all our happenings. Whether you are new to harness racing or are a seasoned fan, you'll enjoy the thrill of a visit to the track. So make sure you stop in for a visit on your next trip to Maine, and enjoy your day at the races!
How to Get to the Track!
Directions: We are conveniently located off Exit 42 of the Maine Turnpike, north or south. After the toll plaza, turn left onto Payne Road. At the first set of lights, take a right into the track and follow for about a half mile until you see the Grandstand and Clubhouse buildings on your left. Lots of parking. You can also reach us via US Route 1. From Portland: Take 295 South to Exit 3/Scarborough. Follow access road to Route 1 South. Pass through 7 traffic lights. Scarborough Downs is on the right at the 8th light. From points south: Travel up Route 1 Look for our big neon sign on the left!
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Scarborough Downs in history.
The Scarborough Downs mile race track under construction (circa 1949)
In the old days, draft horses used to pull the starting gate
out before the start of the races. Note the crowd gathered trackside in the shadows.